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TRANSCRIPT
Resident and Family Handbook
Corner Brook Long Term Care
November 2012
Dear Resident/Family Member:
We would like to welcome you to our Long Term Care Home. We will strive to
make this your Home and provide you with quality services.
We realize that moving can be quite stressful for residents and their families, but
we hope that you or your loved one settle in to their new room and neighborhood.
Our goal is to create a welcoming, positive living experience for all residents and
families.
Please allow yourself time to get settled. This may take some time but our staff is
available to help with the adjustment period and to answer any questions you and
your family may have. Please feel free to discuss any issues with the Resident Care
Coordinators, Social Workers or Managers.
Please keep this handbook during your stay and refer to it as needed.
We truly want this to be a positive experience and hope you will soon feel like this
is your “Home.”
Sincerely,
Shelley Taylor
Site Manager
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 5
Confidentiality ............................................................................................................................... 5
Admission to Long Term Care
Upon Admission ................................................................................................................. 5
Medication ...........................................................................................................................5
Family Involvement ..............................................................................................................6
Visiting Hours .....................................................................................................................7
Resident Identification ....................................................................................................... 8
Concerns and Complaints ................................................................................................... 8
Positive Feedback and Compliments ................................................................................. 8
Satisfaction Survey ..............................................................................................................9
Resident/Family Council ......................................................................................................9
Furniture and Belongings ................................................................................................... 9
Equipment ......................................................................................................................... 10
Clothing and Footwear .................................................................................................... 11
Glasses, Hearing Aids, and Dentures ............................................................................... 11
Valuables........................................................................................................................... 12
Lost, Theft or Damaged Items ........................................................................................... 13
Electrical Appliances ........................................................................................................ 13
Communication
Information Bulletin Boards ............................................................................................. 13
Telephone and Cable .........................................................................................................14
Mail and Newspapers ....................................................................................................... 14
Room Assignments .............................................................................................................14
Day/Overnight Pass ...........................................................................................................15
Interdisciplinary Care ........................................................................................................15
Discharge .......................................................................................................................... 15
Death of a Resident ........................................................................................................... 16
Our Services
Clinical Nutrition and Meal Services .............................................................................. 16
Personal Laundry.............................................................................................................. 17
Linen Services ................................................................................................................... 17
Housekeeping .................................................................................................................... 17
Security ............................................................................................................................. 17
Waste Management ............................................................................................................18
Medical Services ............................................................................................................... 18
Nursing .............................................................................................................................. 18
Occupational Therapy ...................................................................................................... 18
Pharmacy ...........................................................................................................................19
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 4
Physiotherapy ................................................................................................................... 19
Social Work ....................................................................................................................... 20
Therapeutic Recreation ..................................................................................................... 20
Pastoral Care .................................................................................................................... 21
Gift Shop ............................................................................................................................21
Hairdresser and Barber Services...................................................................................... 21
Volunteer Resources Department ..................................................................................... 21
General Information
Visitor Parking .................................................................................................................. 22
Restraints .......................................................................................................................... 22
Advanced Health Care Directives .................................................................................... 22
Power of Attorney ............................................................................................................. 23
Resuscitation .....................................................................................................................23
Foot Care .......................................................................................................................... 24
About Me ............................................................................................................................24
Special Attention ................................................................................................................24
Wandering and Elopement ............................................................................................... 24
Gifts ................................................................................................................................... 25
Scent Free Policy .............................................................................................................. 25
Fire Drills and Security .................................................................................................... 25
Allergies and Swallowing Difficulties ............................................................................... 26
Choking Risk and Feeding Supervision ............................................................................ 26
Alcoholic Beverages ......................................................................................................... 26
Smoking ............................................................................................................................. 27
Donations .......................................................................................................................... 27
Memorial Services ............................................................................................................ 27
Celebrations ...................................................................................................................... 27
Pets .................................................................................................................................... 27
Website .............................................................................................................................. 27
Frequently Asked Questions on Finances ................................................................................ 28
Tips for Successful Visiting ........................................................................................................30
Suggestions for Helping Improve Communication ..................................................................33
Your Rights & Responsibilities as a Resident of Long Term Care .........................................34
Telephone Numbers .................................................................................................................... 37
Emergency Response – Residents & Visitors ...........................................................................38
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 5
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to Long Term Care. The purpose of this handbook is to give you
information about our services at Corner Brook Long Term Care.
CONFIDENTIALITY
Any information concerning residents will be held in the strictest confidence
by physicians and staff of the Home.
ADMISSION TO LONG TERM CARE
Upon Admission - The resident/family will be contacted in advance by the
social worker regarding the vacancy. A tour will/can be offered when the
client is placed on the Long Term Care waitlist. The standard time for
admission is 11:00 a.m. The resident and family will be met by the social
worker or designate and taken to the unit,
introduced to the nursing staff and shown to their
room. The nurse will spend some time with the
resident and family to obtain needed information.
The name of the next-of-kin, along with their
address, telephone number and any other contact information, will be
verified at that time for purpose of contact by the Home if necessary.
Resident’s families are asked to notify the clerk of any changes to the next-
of-kin’s address or telephone number. This information is very important
when contact with the family is needed.
Medications – When you move into the Home, ensure you bring all your
medications with you. These should include prescriptions, creams,
ointments, vitamins, cough, cold, pain and herbal preparations, etc. Your
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medications will be checked to ensure the best possible medication history
and that you receive the best and correct medication therapy.
Family Involvement - It is very important that a family representative come
with the resident on the day of admission for the purpose of providing
information for care planning as well as to help the resident settle in his/her
new home. The involvement of the family in the care planning as well as
ongoing participation is encouraged.
When a person becomes a resident of a Long Term Care Home,
he/she often experiences separation anxiety which is a feeling of loneliness
and detachment from family and friends. Family involvement provides an
opportunity to reduce this anxiety and to show the resident that he/she,
though away from home, is still a very important part of the family and is
still dearly loved and not forgotten.
We encourage family participation in the resident’s
day-to-day care. Our staff, however, understands that the
responsibility for resident care remains with them, even
when family members are helping out. Staff will advise
family members what they may do to help their loved one
and also provide direction with equipment such as a geriatric
chair to ensure safety of the resident. Some ways you can
help include:
Assist with grooming (hair, nails, shave, cosmetics, etc.)
Assist with meals (with guidance)
Tidy table/desk tops and shelves
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 7
Walk or take for a ride in wheelchair (possibly outside if weather
permits)
Assist with exercises and recreational activities
Assist to bathroom (with guidance)
Get refreshments (i.e. juice/milk from kitchen)
Read books, magazines, newspapers
Keep resident abreast of family happenings (e.g. weddings, births)
Take resident out for ice cream, ride, special events
Bring pet for a visit
Encourage children to visit
Family members or visitors must not provide care to other unrelated
residents without discussing this with nursing staff to ensure privacy and
safety of all involved.
Visiting Hours –Visitors are welcome at anytime but should be aware that
the early morning hours are used for personal care such as washing and
bathing. Visitors must observe all fire, smoking and alcohol regulations. The
nurse-in-charge should be informed whenever the
resident leaves the unit with a visitor for
whatever reason. The entrances are locked after
10:00 p.m. The foyer has a telephone with a
number posted for access.
In keeping with Infection Control policies, visitors with cold and flu-
like symptoms are asked not to visit the Home to decrease the spreading of
illness. At times, Corner Brook Long Term Care may be closed to visitors
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 8
due to an outbreak of highly contagious illnesses such as Influenza,
Norwalk, etc.
Resident Identification – A picture of each resident will
be taken for identification purposes.
Concerns and Complaints – The goal of Long Term
Care is to provide quality care to residents; however, there will be instances
where residents and families may wish to bring forward concerns about care
and services, and we want to know. The first step is to discuss the matter
with the nurse-in-charge, the resident care coordinator
or the social worker. If the matter is not addressed
satisfactorily, an appointment with the site manager
can be arranged. We encourage residents to address
concerns directly through the designated family
representative/next-of-kin. Concerns can be
expressed verbally or in writing. We maintain
confidentiality. When looking into a concern, information will only be
shared with those involved on a need-to-know basis in order to thoroughly
address the issue that is being raised. All concerns are investigated, and a
follow up on your feedback will be given to you in a reasonable time frame
or through ongoing updates.
Positive Feedback and Compliments
Your compliments and positive feedback can be shared
in writing, email or by calling the unit or manager.
Positive feedback is so important to our staff, and we appreciate when our
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 9
residents and family members take the time to express this. Compliments
encourage our employees by letting them know that what they do has been
noticed and appreciated. Positive comments and feedback is shared with the
staff involved.
Satisfaction Survey – At different times, residents and families are asked to
complete questionnaires or take part in group discussions to determine the
level of satisfaction with the care and services provided. Your feedback is
very important.
Resident/Family Council – Resident/Family Council meetings are held in
Long Term Care. The meetings provide the opportunity for residents and
families to discuss any issues which may be of concern
to most or all of our residents and to keep informed
about new policies and changes taking place. The
executive of the Council is made up of residents and
family members who are elected to serve. The meetings take place every 6-
8 weeks. Residents and families are encouraged to attend.
Furniture and Belongings – Long Term Care attempts to accommodate
personal furniture and belongings as long as space is available for staff to
work and fire regulations are maintained. All residents’ rooms are furnished
with single beds, over-bed tables, built in wall
closets, wall mounted television sets and chairs;
however, people usually wish to bring in some
personal belongings as well. While we wish to
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create as warm and as comfortable environment as possible, the following
points should be taken into consideration:
The resident care coordinator or nurse must be consulted before
personal furniture or equipment is brought to the Home.
A small refrigerator may be permitted, but it is the
responsibility of the family/resident to clean and maintain it.
Suitcases and other luggage must be taken home by families.
Knick-knacks, plants and other items should be kept to a minimum. If
these items accumulate over time, families may be asked to assist in
moving or storing items, especially in the event of a room change.
Rugs and mats are not allowed as they are potentially unsafe.
Rooms and cupboards will be checked periodically for perishable
food items.
Furniture with cloth material is discouraged from being brought into
the Home. Furniture must be upholstered with a material which can
be wiped down and disinfected (i.e., vinyl, leather).
Suitcases and other luggage must be taken home by families.
PLEASE NOTE: If permission is not given for furniture or
belongings to be brought in, you will be asked to remove the items
if they potentially pose a safety risk.
Equipment – If a resident has equipment such as a walker or wheelchair, or
is considering the purchase of such equipment, please contact the on-site
Occupational Therapy or Physiotherapy Department for input into
appropriate choices. Resident and family members are
required to have all personal walkers or wheelchairs clearly
identified with the resident’s name prior to admission.
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Clothing and Footwear – All clothing is labeled by the Laundry Department
upon admission to the Home. It is suggested that the resident bring clothing
prior to admission to have it labeled. Laundry
services are provided free of charge. Hangers can
be brought along for clothing. New clothing must
be labeled by laundry staff prior to the first
wearing. We ask that residents limit the amount
of clothing brought to the Home due to limited space. Residents will require
6-7 days to allow turnover from laundry. Families are asked to take off-
season clothing home. We recognize that families may wish to continue with
laundering their loved ones clothing. If this is the case, please have clothing
labeled in order to minimize loss of such items.
Due to the degree of frailty of some of our residents, “regular”
clothing may not be suitable. When there are special needs, the family
should speak to the nursing staff prior to purchasing or altering clothing.
There are catalogues available from clothing shops for seniors that offer
clothing that is appropriate, easy to wear, and affordable. All clothing must
be wash and wear. The Home cannot take responsibility for wool, silk, linen
or other fine fabrics that require special care. It is recommended that
residents have comfortable and appropriate footwear.
Glasses, Hearing Aids and Dentures – It is not possible to ensure that
eyeglasses, hearing aids and dentures will never be
damaged or misplaced. If these types of articles are
lost, we will do a reasonable search. If these items
cannot be found or are broken beyond repair, please
consult with the social worker. There may be a means of replacement if the
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resident qualifies for financial subsidy under the Advanced Education and
Skills Program. If the resident does not qualify for subsidy under this
program, the resident will have to pay the cost of having their dentures,
eyeglasses, or hearing aids replaced. If possible, these items should be
marked or engraved prior to admission. Requests to purchase or repair
eyeglasses, dentures or hearing aids are made through the registered nurse. If
there are any financial concerns, the social worker will be contacted.
Arrangements can also be made to have a denturist or optometrist visit the
resident at the Home.
Valuables – Residents are permitted to bring in articles which will help
personalize their room and surroundings, however, resident rooms may not
be locked. As a result, we are unable to protect
valuables (e.g.: eyeglasses, hearing aids, dentures,
jewelry, and collector items, etc.), furnishings or
personal belongings from breakage or loss. Sometimes a
resident, who suffers from dementia, may remove an article of their own or
enter another resident’s room thinking that it is their own room and
accidently cause an article to be damaged or misplaced. The Home cannot
replace or compensate financially for any lost or damaged personal
furnishings or belongings. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that
residents not keep valuables in their rooms, especially those that, if lost or
broken, would cause great stress to the resident or family. If an item is
missing, please let the registered nurse know and staff will do a reasonable
search for the item.
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 13
Lost, Theft or Damaged Items – Eyeglasses, dentures, hearing aids, jewelry
or other valuables are sometimes lost or damaged by a resident. The
replacement of items, where the actions of the
resident contributes to the loss or damage, will
be the responsibility of the resident or family. The Home will replace
broken, damaged or misplaced articles only if it can be determined that a
staff member was responsible for the damage or loss. The Home is not
responsible for loss or theft of any personal items or money. If items are
missing, a search will be done by the staff and, if needed, the police will be
called.
Electrical Appliances – Appliances such as radios, shavers and hair dryers
may be brought to the Home but must be CSA
approved. An electrical check is required by
maintenance staff before use. If a resident has a
radio and it is disturbing others, then headphones or earphones may be
needed. TV’s are provided in all lounges. Kettles, toasters, microwave ovens
and refrigerators are available for resident and family use in the kitchenette
area on each unit. If a food item is left in the refrigerator, please ensure that
it is labeled with the resident’s name and date.
Note: Kettles, toasters and microwaves etc, are NOT PERMITTED in
resident’s rooms
COMMUNICATION
Information Bulletin Boards – There are bulletin boards on
each unit which are used to inform residents and families of
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meetings, recreation activities or other items of interest. Signs and posters
may also be posted throughout Long Term Care notifying residents and
families of special events.
Telephone and Cable – Telephone and cable hookup can
be arranged by the residents and/or family at their own
personal expense by contacting the telephone company
directly. The monthly bill can be forwarded to the
resident/family for payment or arrangements can be made with Financial
Services. Portable telephones are available at the Home for resident’s use
but long distance charges are the responsibility of the resident. When calling
the Home, you may get the answering machine. Should the nursing home
move a resident to another room, not at the request of the resident/family,
the cost of relocating the telephone and cable will be covered by the Home.
Mail and Newspapers – Mail will be delivered to the residents. Stamps can
be purchased at the Gift Shop. Residents and families are
responsible for making arrangements for the delivery and
payment of newspapers.
Room Assignments – Transfers within the Home may be required or
requested. This could occur due to changes in the level of care of the
resident, the need to accommodate emergency situations or the
resident/family may request a move for personal reasons. Long Term Care
reserves the right to make necessary room changes, but will make every
effort to keep changes to a minimum and to notify families prior to the
transfer. If it has not been possible to notify the family prior to transferring
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 15
their relative, they will be notified in writing. Long Term Care reserves the
right to allocate private rooms based on the greatest need.
Day/Overnight Pass – Residents are encouraged to go out for daily outings,
family functions and extended visits with family. If
residents wish to go out for the day or overnight, the
nursing staff must be notified in advance. The resident or
person accepting responsibility will sign a form of
accountability for both the resident and his/her medications. The expected
time of return must be given. The board and lodging rate remains the same
during the time away from the Home.
Interdisciplinary Care – Staff from many departments work as a team to
provide the best possible care for residents and this is called interdisciplinary
care. After admission, the resident is seen by staff from different
departments who assess the resident’s needs. A
team meeting is then held approximately two
months after admission to provide the
opportunity for the family and resident to meet
with the staff to discuss the care needs of the resident. Future meetings will
be held yearly or as needed to discuss the care of residents.
Discharge – If a resident decides to leave Long Term Care, the social
worker and staff can help with making plans for
care in their new home.
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 16
Death of a Resident – The family is contacted by the nurse when a resident
passes away. It is expected that a family member make
funeral arrangements and contact the funeral home at the
time of death. Details and costs of funerals are the
responsibility of the resident and the family. Pre-planned
funerals are encouraged. The Home has a policy for removal of belongings
following death. Due to the high demand for beds in the Home, we ask that
this task be done within 24 hours of the resident’s death.
OUR SERVICES
Clinical Nutrition and Meal Services – Clinical Nutrition Services are
provided by one full-time registered dietitian. Services offered include:
wound management, swallowing assessments, bowel care, hydration
assessments and intake supplementation. It is important that residents and
visitors check with the dietitian or nursing staff before giving residents any
food or liquids. The dietitian will complete a nutrition assessment within 8-
10 weeks of admission.
Food Services are pleased to provide a three-week menu cycle
offering many traditional Newfoundland foods that are cooked on site.
Residents are offered three meals a day and an
evening snack. All residents are encouraged to enjoy
their meals in the beautiful dining room on their unit.
The goal of meal service is to provide meals that are
nutritious and appetizing to residents. In the event that your loved one has
any special requests that cannot be accommodated in-house, families are
welcome to bring special items in. There is a kitchen on each unit equipped
with foods like tea, juice, milk, bread, biscuits, yogurt, puddings and other
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 17
nutritious snacks for residents to have between meals if desired. We will
continue to seek resident and family input in our menu services through the
Resident and Family Council.
Personal Laundry – Soiled clothing is placed in a colored
linen bag. Clothing is distributed after washing by placed
into resident’s closets and dresser drawers. If families are
taking responsibility for the resident’s personal laundry, please advise the
laundry or nursing staff. Residents are encouraged to have clothing that is
easily washed in hot water and dried in automatic machines at high
temperature. All personal laundry should have a name tag attached. To label
resident’s clothing:
1. Resident/Family will bring clothes to the nursing unit.
2. Nursing staff will place clothes into a plastic bag and mark the
resident’s name and unit on the outside of the bag.
3. Laundry workers will collect the bags and bring them to the labeler
room where they will be labeled.
4. Labeled clothing will be returned to resident’s room.
Linen Services – All bed linens are washed through the Western Linen
Service at Western Memorial Regional Hospital.
Housekeeping – Staff provide a clean, safe, pleasing and functional
environment for residents, staff and visitors.
Security – Twenty-four hour security coverage is provided.
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 18
Waste Management – Ensures the safe and efficient handling, transportation
and disposal of all waste.
Medical Services – Residents from the immediate area are usually followed
by their own family doctor. Residents from outside the immediate area are
followed by the staff physician for Long Term Care. As deemed necessary,
residents may be referred to outside agencies/physicians for consultant
services and treatment. Transfer to the Emergency Department at the
hospital is available in urgent situations as determined by the registered
nurse.
Nursing – Nursing care is provided by registered
nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and
personal care attendants (PCAs) on a 24-hour
basis. Each floor is staffed by a registered nurse
who is responsible for the direction and
coordination of resident care on a day-to-day basis. Each floor is also staffed
with LPNs and PCAs who provide resident care and report to the registered
nurse. Resident care coordinators (RCCs) work Monday to Friday and
provide leadership to the nursing staff and oversee the resident care units.
Occupational Therapy – Occupational therapists support everything that
people do in their lives that has meaning and value
for them. This includes activities such as looking
after themselves (self-care), enjoying life (leisure)
and contributing to work, purpose, and productivity.
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 19
Occupational therapists work with residents to help them break down the
barriers to meeting their every day activities. For example, the occupational
therapist may help a resident to become more independent in feeding
themselves by suggesting special utensils; or may help a resident move
around the Home by recommending special seating or a wheelchair. Any
member of the Interdisciplinary Care Team can refer a resident to the
occupational therapist. The occupational therapist has an office and
treatment space in the Home.
Pharmacy – Medications required by residents in Long Term Care are
provided by the Pharmacy Department at Western Memorial Regional
Hospital. The Pharmacy Department provides services that include safe
medication distribution and storage of resident’s
medication therapy. Regular visitation from a pharmacist
is provided as well as training for staff. If the resident is
planning to be away for a period of time, the nursing staff
should be notified in advance. This will allow the pharmacy to prepare
medications for the visit. Any questions regarding the cost associated with
medications can be discussed with the social assistance worker.
Physiotherapy – Physiotherapy helps residents with range of motion,
strength, balance, ability to transfer and independence. There is a
physiotherapist and an assistant assigned to provide services. All residents
admitted to Long Term Care are assessed by the
physiotherapist. Physiotherapy services can be
accessed by physician referral or the
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recommendation of the registered nurse. Physiotherapy treatment will be
started, if deemed needed, after an assessment by the physiotherapist. The
physiotherapist has an office and treatment space in the Home.
Social Work – When a vacancy occurs, contact is made
by the social worker with the applicant and/or family to
discuss the admission process and to offer a tour of the
Home. Social Work Counseling Services are available to
all residents/families and can be initiated by contacting
the Social Worker at the Home. Interdisciplinary care
conferences are coordinated by the social worker and include the resident,
family members and interdisciplinary team members. The social worker can
assist with the financial services to residents. Prior to admission, residents
are required to have a financial assessment completed. Following admission,
the social assistance worker will contact the resident and family to review
the financial information and discuss eligibility for programs in Long Term
Care.
Therapeutic Recreation – Therapeutic Recreation provides leisure
opportunities and therapeutic programs to all residents for the purpose of
promoting quality of life and enhancing normalization. The recreation
specialist assesses the individual needs of the residents and develops a care
plan that is followed by the recreation worker on each unit.
Planned activities include: bus outings, bingo,
entertainment, physical exercise, baking, cooking and
more. As well, there are many more one-on-one activities
like reminiscing, autobiography, interests and activities. The activity
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schedule is posted monthly. At times, families will receive invitations to
attend some of the special events that are planned. Photos are regularly
taken and they can be shared with residents and their families upon request.
Pastoral Care – Pastoral Care Services assist with religious and spiritual
needs. This is provided by chaplains, parish clergy, and
trained volunteers. Inform the nurse if you wish to see
someone from Pastoral Care Services. These services
include: individual visits, weekly worship services, and
special events. There are interdenominational worship services: Anglican,
Pentecostal, Roman Catholic, Salvation Army and United Church. The
schedules are posted.
Gift Shop – The Auxiliary for Corner Brook Long Term Care operates a gift
shop located on the 1st floor. Money raised by the Auxiliary is used to
provide supplies and equipment needed by the residents.
Hairdresser and Barber Services – A full functioning hair salon and in-
house hair care services are provided at a cost to the
residents. Requests for hair service may be directed
to the nurse or the hair salon.
Volunteer Resources Department –The Volunteer Resource Department
enhances quality of care by bringing additional services to residents and
families. Volunteers assist in the nursing areas and other
departments and may include delivering magazines and books,
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 22
assisting with church services, recreation therapy programs, providing
music, entertainment and more. Volunteers are an important part of our
health care team. Please call 637-5369 for more information.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Visitor Parking – Parking is available at the front of the Home for family
and visitors.
Restraints – Western Health promotes a belief of least restraint and a
person’s right for freedom, dignity, respect, and choice. Restraints such as
medications or devices that restrict movement can pose a safety risk. In
some cases, we use seat belts on wheelchairs to assist a resident with safe
independent mobility. A gerichair/wheelchair, when used to assist with
positioning, mobility or quality of life, would not be considered a restraint.
Other methods of restraints are only used in extreme cases and for brief
periods after team assessment and after discussion with the resident or
family.
Advanced Health Care Directives – It is
recommended that each person entering Long
Term Care have an Advanced Health Care
Directive (AHCD). It is a written copy of a
person’s health care wishes which is used when an
illness or injury leaves a person unable to make their health wishes known to
others. Residents and families may want to discuss this with their doctor in
advance. This should reduce problems over deciding what treatments a
person would want.
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 23
There is no cost to make an AHCD and anybody can write one. For
further information or help with making an AHCD, you may call your
doctor, public health nurse or social worker.
Power of Attorney – A Power of Attorney is a legal
document which gives one or more persons the power
to act on behalf of another person for their financial
affairs. A Power of Attorney is not valid when a person
becomes legally incompetent. For this reason, Enduring Power of Attorney
is useful as it allows a person to determine, prior to any incapacity, how he
or she wishes to have their financial affairs handled should mental incapacity
occur.
The preparation of an Enduring Power of Attorney, a Living Will, and
an Advanced Health Care Directive are ways to ensure that one’s wishes are
carried out when they are unable to express them. Advance preparation will
help ease the difficulties faced by family members and loved ones in
unexpected circumstances, including lengthy disability.
Resuscitation – Residents have the right to accept or refuse treatment by a
doctor. The right to decide about treatment also includes the right to decide
about Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). CPR is done to restart the
heart and lungs when they suddenly stop working. Some residents choose
not to have CPR. This does not mean that all medical
treatment will stop. We will continue to give care,
comfort and support to residents and their families.
When death is near, our aim is to allow residents to die
with peace and respect. After admission, a registered nurse will talk to you
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 24
about your resuscitation wishes and make plans for the doctor to speak with
you about your decisions.
Foot Care – Foot care is provided at the Home. All
nursing staff is able to complete foot care, but advanced
foot care is provided by specially trained registered nurses.
About Me – Residents and families are encouraged to fill out the “About
Me” life history profile so our staff can gain knowledge
about the resident’s past work, hobbies, talents, etc. The
more staff know about a resident, the better chance they
have of finding activities that will be of interest to them
and making them feel comfortable.
Special Attention – There may be times when your loved one requires
special attention because he/she is experiencing increased agitation or is
having a difficult time. For example, they could be having problems settling
in, having a medical procedure that requires someone to sit with them, or
needing assistance with meals. As part of our care team, there will be times
when we will ask family to come into the Home and assist us in settling the
resident by sitting with them. This family support will be a tremendous help
to your loved one.
Wandering and Elopement – Following admission, each resident is assessed
for their risk of wandering and elopement. If there is a risk of elopement,
the resident may be transferred to a more secure unit or provided with a
wander alert device as supplied by the Home. The decision as to the
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 25
appropriate unit is at the discretion of the Interdisciplinary Team in
consultation with the family. Residents are reviewed regularly to determine
if their risk of elopement has changed and to determine if the current unit/
home is appropriate for the resident’s care needs.
Gifts – If family is looking for suggestions for appropriate gifts for a loved
one, please check with nursing staff. This is
important on certain units with respect to safety.
For example: artificial plants versus real plants, the
need to avoid sharp or breakable objects, and so on.
The use of scented products such as perfume, lotion
and hairspray are not permitted due to the number of residents and staff who
become ill when these products are used. It is requested that families do not
buy powder for the resident as it is not permitted in Long Term Care.
Scent Free Policy – Western Health has a “Scent Free (No
Scent/Low Scent) Environment Policy”. Some residents
and staff have allergic reactions to scented products.
Family/Visitors are asked not to wear scented products when they visit, or
bring scented items into the building for residents (i.e., powders, perfumes,
aftershaves, certain flowers, etc.).
Fire Drills and Security – The Fire Alarm System is activated on a regular
basis for the purpose of testing our fire procedures. The alarm
is sounded and the residents and visitors are given directions
by staff on the unit. If visiting when the fire alarm sounds,
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 26
please stay with the resident. Security staff is on duty 24 hours to ensure the
safety of residents and our property.
Allergies and Swallowing Difficulties – Some residents may have allergies
to certain foods or products. Nuts, shellfish, chocolate and fruit, etc. are of
particular concern. Some residents may have difficulty swallowing as a
result of a medical condition. Please do not offer any food to a resident who
may not be able to tell you of his/her situation. Please check with the nurse
to ensure the safety of all residents.
Choking Risk and Feeding Supervision – There is often a risk of choking
for residents and we have safety steps in place to reduce this
risk. They are:
a) A Feeding Screening Tool is completed upon admission
and when any change is noted in your loved one’s
feeding pattern;
b) If needed, there is supervision during meal times;
c) We encourage residents to have their meals in the common dining
area.
d) We also encourage families to participate in the caregiving for your
loved ones as appropriate; however, we ask that you not feed or
provide care to any other residents.
Alcoholic Beverages – It is requested that alcoholic beverages not be left
with residents but, instead, left at the nursing station
so that staff can give to the resident safely. It is
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 27
requested that alcohol not be shared with other residents unless discussed
with the nursing staff. Alcohol could have a serious reaction with
medications. Alcohol is sometimes used at social functions but it is closely
monitored.
Smoking –There is a “No Smoking Policy” for all Long Term
Care facilities and properties.
Donations – Monetary donations in remembrance of a loved
one is very much appreciated. If other types of donations are
being considered, please contact the manager before any
purchases are made.
Memorial Services –To remember residents who have passed away, a
service of remembrance is held twice a year. Refreshments and fellowship
will follow the service. All residents and family members are welcome.
Celebrations – If families wish to have a birthday party or family gathering
for a resident, please contact recreation therapy to
make arrangements for a time and space.
Pets – Pets on a leash are permitted to visit.
Website – Western Health’s website (www.westernhealth.nl.ca) offers
information about all of our programs and services.
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 28
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ON FINANCES
A financial assessment is done to determine an individual’s eligibility or
level of subsidy.
Who Do I Contact?
You will need to contact a community support nurse or social worker in your
area to have the Continuing Care Assessment Tool completed. Once the
Continuing Care Assessment Tool has been completed, a social assistance worker
will complete the financial assessment.
What is the Cost of Long Term Care Per Month?
The rate for Long Term Care is $2800.00 per month. A financial assessment
will be completed in order to determine eligibility for a subsidy.
What is Needed to Complete the Financial Assessment?
Financial assessments are based upon the income and liquid assets of the
applicant and spouse. Verification of income and liquid assets will be required.
Some common living expenses and debts can be used in the financial assessment to
determine the subsidy for long term care. Proof of all expenses should be
forwarded to the social assistance worker to determine if they are eligible expenses
or debts.
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 29
How is Payment Made?
If you are receiving a subsidy, it is a requirement to change the address of all
income sources to the Finance Office. Private paying individuals can make
payments at the Finance Office in the Home. If the resident has a spouse living in
the community, the resident’s income sources may remain with the spouse. It is
the responsibility of the spouse to make monthly payments which are due on the 1st
of each month.
How Much Money Will I Have Each Month?
Subsidized residents receive $150.00 comfort allowance from their income
which can be held in their trust account at the Finance Office. The comfort
allowance is used to cover the cost of medications not covered by the
Newfoundland and Labrador Drug Prescription Program, as well as personal items
needed by the resident. The resident can access this money as well as the Power of
Attorney. Next-of-kin can access the comfort allowance held in trust when receipts
are presented.
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 30
TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL VISITING
Visiting is encouraged by family, including children, friends and pets. Visitors
are the resident’s link to the community. They provide continuity of the resident’s
previous life to the present one. Their visits often add to the resident’s quality of
life and provide reassurance that they are still loved, valued and remembered.
Please consider the following Tips for Successful Visiting in the Home:
Visit at a “good time of day” for the resident remembering that personal care is
often done between 0800 and noon. If the resident’s door is closed, please
knock or check with nursing staff before entering.
Check the activity schedule and plan visits to be able to accompany the
resident.
Coordinate visits with others so the resident benefits from receiving several
visits rather than everyone visiting at the same time. Residents respond better
when one or two visitors come at a time.
Set realistic expectations for yourself in terms of visitation. Don’t set yourself
up for failure and feelings of guilt because you are unable to visit as often as
you think you should.
Try to include the resident in conversation with other residents and staff.
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 31
Find an area in the Home where you feel most comfortable to visit with the
resident such as the chapel, lounge, dining room or activity area. Vary where
you visit with the resident if you prefer.
Bring along something to read or work with (i.e. knitting) in case the resident is
sleeping but you wish to keep him/her company.
Ask for guidance and information on how to interact with the resident if there is
a physical or memory change and
you are uncertain about approach.
Coming to terms with your feelings
about the admission and resident’s
limitations can ease some of the
stress experienced during visitation.
Ask for help in dealing with your
feelings. Remember that nursing
home admission means adjustment for family as well as the resident.
Reminisce with the resident. You can show appreciation of the resident’s life by
looking at photo albums together, sharing stories and memories, comparing
how things used to be and how they are now; talking about places visited, etc
Make a list of activities you can do with the resident, such as reading together,
listening to music, changing room decorations according to the season, and
enjoying time spent together.
Place yourself at eye level when talking with the resident
Don’t feel you have to talk the whole time you visit. You might want to sit
quietly and hold the resident’s hand.
Bring gifts for special occasions or “just because”, such as flowers from your
garden, bright colored autumn leaves or seashells you picked up on a beach.
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 32
Plan to spend quality time with the resident. Create new memories –
“Remember when you visited me and we did such and such together?” or “I
remember visiting when you were not feeling well and in bed and I sang some
of your favorite hymns to you? I’ll never forget how you smiled at me despite
your misery.”
Allow residents to do whatever they can for themselves as long as possible.
Acknowledge and reinforce this during visits. Accent the positive, always
mindful of the residents’ abilities and limitations.
Lend support to other family and friends who may be visiting.
Do not provide any care such as feeding or moving unless you check with
nursing staff.
Residents with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia respond better when
visitors come alone or in groups of two.
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 33
SUGGESTIONS FOR HELPING IMPROVE COMMUNICATION WITH
RESIDENTS WITH COMMUNICATION ISSUES
HELPING COMMUNICATION
Remember K.I.S.S. (Keep It Short and Sweet)
1. The best place is quiet with no distractions (e.g., Turn off the TV).
2. Make sure person is not too tired.
3. Talk to them one on one or in a small group.
4. Get the person’s attention before speaking.
5. Make sure you face them and make good eye contact.
6. One person speaks at a time.
7. Say the most important thing first.
8. Keep your sentences short.
9. Use simple words and sentences.
10. Talk slowly, clearly, and slightly louder if needed.
11. Repeat things using the same words.
12. Ask questions that require a “yes/no” response.
13. Give them choices (e.g., Instead of, “What do you want to drink?” say,
“water or juice”).
14. Give the person time to understand (wait 30 seconds).
15. Use gestures to help communication (e.g., point, wave goodbye).
16. Watch the person’s body language (facial expression, eye contact …) for
clues to what they might be trying to communicate.
17. If they can read, write down the word or short sentence.
18. If they can write, ask them to write the word or sentence.
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 34
YOUR RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES AS A RESIDENT
OF LONG TERM CARE
When a person enters a long term care home it is now their Home. Caregivers
must remember this when making decisions and doing activities. Each resident has
his/her own wants and needs and has rights and responsibilities.
1. Residents have the right to be treated with politeness, respect and free from
abuse.
Residents must treat roommates, other
residents, visitors, volunteers and staff
with respect.
2. Residents have the right to have food, clothes,
and a clean place to live.
Residents must keep their room tidy as much as they can.
Residents must have proper clothes and footwear, prosthetic aids and
anything else that is necessary for living in the Home.
Residents must tell staff if family is doing their laundry.
3. Residents have the right to have their own things as long as it is safe for
them and others.
4. Residents have the right to be told who is looking after them.
Residents can tell staff how they want to be cared for.
5. Residents have the right to have treatment and care done in private.
6. Residents have the right to have their own health information kept private.
7. Residents have the right to be told about their health, care and treatment in
words that are easy to understand.
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 35
Residents must give true medical information and keep the staff
informed of any changes. They should ask about information they do
not understand.
8. Residents have the right to take or refuse treatment, which includes care and
medication. Residents must be told what will happen if they refuse or accept
treatment, care and medication.
9. Residents have the right to make decisions about their medical care and get a
second medical opinion.
Residents must tell staff about appointments and if they are taking any
home remedies, herbal or natural products.
10. Residents have the right to take part in social activities that they enjoy and
are able to do.
Residents must also respect what other people
like to do.
11. Residents have the right to visit others in private.
Residents have the right to see or not see visitors.
12. Residents have the right to visit with their spouse in
private. When both spouses live in the same Home,
they have a right to share a room if they want to and are able.
Residents must make sure any sexual activities are done in private.
Residents must not have any sexual activity with a person who does
not agree.
13. Residents have the right to die at the Home and have their family and
friends with them.
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 36
Residents must tell staff what they want done if they become sick.
They must give a copy of an Advance Health Care Directive if they
have one and tell staff of any funeral plans that are made.
14. Residents have the right to have family and friends told when they go to
the hospital.
15. Residents have the right to freely suggest changes in policies and services to
the Resident’s Council or staff.
Residents must tell staff when they see others doing something
wrong.
16. Residents have the right to know about any law, rule or policy that affects
the residents of the Home. They have the right to know where to go with
any complaints or concerns.
17. Residents have the right to manage their own money when they are able.
When the Home manages a resident’s money, they can ask for a record of
how the money is spent.
18. Residents have the right to go outside to enjoy fresh air and outdoor activity
when it is safe.
Residents must tell staff when they are going to be away from the
Home.
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 37
MAIN NUMBER: (709) 637-3999
JOB TITLE PHONE NUMBER/
EXTENSION
ADMINISTRATION:
Site Manager 3528
Long Term Care Manager – 2nd
Floor 3503
Long Term Care Manager – 3rd
Floor 3502
Long Term Care Manager – 4th
Floor 3504
Administrative Support 3500/3501
RESIDENT CARE UNITS:
Behavioral Care 3992
Protective Care 3993
Veteran’s Affairs 3991
2 North 3921
2 South 3922
Resident Care Coordinator (VAC & 2nd
Floor) 3570
3 North 3931
3 South 3932
Resident Care Coordinator (PCU & 3rd
Floor) 3572
4 North 3941
4 South 3942
Resident Care Coordinator (1 South E & 4th
Floor) 3571
OTHER:
Doctor’s Office 3509
Social Work Clinical Leader (2nd
Floor & VAC) 3534
Social Work (1 South E & 4th
Floor) 3536
Social Work (3rd
Floor & Protective Care) 3513
Social Work (PCRs) 632-2064
Social Assistance Worker 3527
Dietitian 3517
Physiotherapy 3510
Occupational Therapy 3516
Recreation Specialist 3518
Volunteer Services 3531
Laundry 3597
Hair Salon 3507
Gift Shop 3508
Finance 3506
Behaviour Management Specialist 3512
Corner Brook Long Term Care Handbook 38
EMERGENCY RESPONSE – RESIDENTS AND VISITORS
IN CASE OF FIRE ALARM SIGNAL:
Upon Hearing Fire Alarm
RESIDENTS VISITORS
If you are in your room, remain
there.
Stay with the resident you are
visiting.
If you are in the hallway near
your room, go to your room and
remain there.
Close doors to the area you are in
to help keep smoke and fire out.
If you are in a common room
such as a lounge or dining room
and it is safe to do so, remain
there or move to a safe area.
Follow alarm instructions for
residents.
Close doors to the area you are in
to help keep smoke and fire out.
Await further instructions from
staff.
Await instructions for evacuation.
IN CASE OF FIRE:
If You Discover a Fire
RESIDENTS VISITORS
Leave fire immediately. Assist anyone in immediate
danger to move to safe area and
remain there.
Close all doors behind you to
confine smoke and fire.
Close all doors behind you to
confine smoke and fire.
Sound alarm and/or alert staff. Await instructions from staff.
Await instructions for evacuation. If instructed, assist with
evacuation.
DO NOT USE ELEVATORS
CAUTION: If you encounter smoke in the corridor or stairway, use an alternate exit or if all
stairways are affected, it may be safer to stay in your area.
REMAIN CALM